WHY DETOX?

Toxicity in the body occurs on two basic levels - external and internal. Firstly, on an internal level, our body produces toxins through its normal everyday functions - biochemical, cellular, and bodily activities generate substances that need to be eliminated. When these substances/molecules/toxins are not eliminated, they can cause irritation or inflammation of the cells and tissues, therefore blocking normal functions on a cellular, organ and whole-body level. Secondly, we can acquire toxins from our environment by breathing them in, ingesting them or through physical contact with them (eg. alcohol, caffeine, prescription medication, chemicals found in foods and skin care products and pollutants in the air that we breathe). The high exposure to these chemicals over a long period of time increases the toxic load on your liver.
While the liver’s major function is detoxification, it is also involved in many other processes in the body, including the following: maintaining proper levels of glucose in the blood; storing excess energy as glycogen in the muscles; storing some vitamins and minerals; and producing substances that break down fats. The liver has so many functions in the body – even without the added extra duty to detoxify alcohol or other recreational substances that many people use. This is why I recommend that most people undertake a detox once or twice a year.

SARITA’S TOP TIPS TO DETOX & REVITALISE

The basic idea is to avoid foods and substances that the liver doesn't like (such as alcohol, caffeine, sugar and poor quality fats) and include foods that the liver does like (such as broccoli, green leafy vegetables, lemons/limes and plenty of water). For detoxification, I recommend that people follow Sarita's Wellness Eating Plan but make it a little lighter and more cleansing – with a further focus on fruit and vegetables and a smaller amount of protein (with fish, chicken and eggs as the best choices), grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Portion sizes should be slightly smaller. Including some steamed foods and raw foods/salads is generally beneficial for someone on a detoxification program as well. Be sure to also include those foods that are particularly beneficial for the liver in the list below.

SARITA'S TOP 4 BBTC TEAS TO DETOX & REVITALISE

On a detox it is important to encourage the elimination of toxins from the body by supporting the liver – the primary organ of elimination. Additionally, it is important that the kidneys, bowel, lymphatic system and skin are working efficiently, as these organs are also involved in the elimination of wastes from the body.

1. DETOX
Cleanse, revitalise and feel great with this zesty blend of bitter and sweet herbs, and warming spices. A healthy, delicious infusion that can be enjoyed any time of the day, or whenever you feel your body might benefit from a light cleanse.
Ingredients: Fennel* Calendula* Nettle* Chicory root* Dandelion root* Licorice* Ginger* Cinnamon* (* Certified Organic)

Dandelion Root(Taraxacum officinalis) - a slightly bitter herb that can assist kidney and liver function. It may help to reduce fluid retention and uric acid levels, has a mild laxative effect and may help with the digestion and breakdown of fats.

Chicory(Cichorum officinalis) - a bitter herb that is used to stimulate the bowel and protect and tonify the liver.

Calendula(Calendula officinalis) - assists in the treatment of digestive inflammation or ulcers and is also a gentle lymphatic cleanser that will help to remove toxins from the blood.

Nettle(Urtica dioica)- used extensively for strengthening and supporting the whole body as it is high in vitamin C, chlorophyll, iron, silica and other minerals that have an alkalising effect on the blood and a mildly diuretic action.

Licorice(Glycyrrhiza glabra) - can be used to help reduce inflammation in the gut, such as gastritis and ulcers.

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) - used in this blend for its stimulating, warming and energising properties and to balance the cooling effects of the bitter herbs. Ginger helps to promote gastric secretions and relieve any stomach upsets or nausea while cleansing.

Cinnamon(Cinnamomum verum) - Cinnamon is useful in the treatment of stomach ailments. It also helps to purify the blood and aid digestion.

Roasted Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinalis)- a slightly bitter herb that can assist kidney and liver function. It may help to reduce fluid retention and uric acid levels, has a mild laxative effect and may help with the digestion and breakdown of fats.

3. DIGEST
A light, refreshing infusion featuring peppermint, lemonbalm and fennel, that has been specially blended for enjoyment before, during or after any meal. Proper digestion is vitally important for proper liver function and for good health generally. The breakdown of food and efficient elimination of wastes via the bowel is essential on a detox to reduce the accumulation of endogenous toxins that can be produced in the bowel and that the liver has to detoxify if they are recycled. BBTC’s Digest is understated, minty and gentle on the stomach. Bon Appetit!
Ingredients: Peppermint* Chamomile* Fennel* Lemonbalm* (* Certified Organic)

Peppermint (Mentha peperita) - has been traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of intestinal gas associated with the consumption of certain foods. It is commonly used today to treat digestive pain and cramping, bloating, flatulence and nausea.

Lemon Balm(Melissa officinalis) - helps to calm and soothe the stomach and to ease the pain associated with bloating and flatulence.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) - has both relaxing and bitter properties, making it a suitable herb in the treatment of indigestion and to ease the pain associated with gastritis, flatulence and bloating.

Fennel(Foeniculum vulgare) - an excellent stomach and intestinal remedy that relieves flatulence and colic, while stimulating digestion and appetite.

4. GREEN TEA
This Organic Sencha Green is a large-leafed green tea and a beautiful light green colour when steeped. It is light and refreshing with a brisk taste.

Green Tea, Detox and Antioxidant Support
Green tea is renowned for its ability to defend against free radical damage to DNA by increasing total antioxidant activity and decreasing plasma peroxide levels – important activities when the body is working hard to remove toxins. One of the most important intracellular antioxidants is glutathione, which has been shown in many studies to be increased by the consumption of green tea. Glutathione plays a crucial role in helping to clear toxins from inside the cells.

A recent study undertaken at the Oklohoma State University found that green tea can increase glutathione levels in adults with the metabolic syndrome[1]. Thirty-five obese participants with the metabolic syndrome were randomly assigned to receive one of the following for 8 weeks: green tea (4 cups per day), control (4 cups water per day), or green tea extract (2 capsules and 4 cups water per day). Blood samples and dietary information were collected at baseline (0 week) and 8 weeks of the study. Circulating carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene) and tocopherols (α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol) and trace elements were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy, respectively. Serum antioxidantenzymes (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, catalase) and plasma antioxidant capacity were measured spectrophotometrically. Green tea beverage and green tea extract significantly increased plasma antioxidant capacity (1.5 to 2.3 μmol/L and 1.2 to 2.5 μmol/L, respectively; P < .05) and whole blood glutathione (1783 to 2395 μg/g hemoglobin and 1905 to 2751 μg/g hemoglobin, respectively; P < .05) vs controls at 8 weeks. These results support the hypothesis that green tea may provide antioxidant protection in the metabolic syndrome.